Kiir (center) seen in this undated photo attended the 34th anniversary of SPLA. Photo: AP
January 1, 2022 (SSNA) — South Sudan’s President, Salva Kiir, has ordered the banning of all active and non-commissioned military officers from participating in politics, a decree issued by the president and obtained by the South Sudan News Agency (SSNA) shows.
In the statement, Kiir barred officers from politics including local community leadership roles.
“Republican Decree no 27/2021 for the prohibition of all active officers and non-commissioned officers (NCOs) in South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF) and all the Other Regular Forces from participating in politics, the leadership of respective communities, youth or women organizations, the promotion of propaganda and hate speeches on social media platforms, 2021 A.D.” the decree reads in part.
The move was seen by some analysts as a good step toward peace, shocking military officers as they welcome the new year with a new presidential ban. The Presidency did not provide a reason for the decision.